-You can eat buffalo wings with them (substitute buffalo wings for any meat on the bone)
-You can de-shell a shrimp with them (substitute shrimp for any shell fish)
-You can pick the seeds out of watermelons with them
-You can transfer food from one set of chopsticks someone is holding to your own set of chopsticks
Interesting things I have heard this week:
"You are the smartest foreigner I have ever met." In regards to the fact that I memorized my cell phone number. Apparently everyone else has just handed the phone with the number showing to this teacher.
"Teacher you are very beautiful." A student, or multiple students.
"Because you look like us, you should wear a name tag so people know you are the English teacher." My principal being concerned that people might not treat me right because I look Korean.
"Teacher, you and my brother are predestined. He's 26!" Student trying to tell me that her brother and I are "meant to be together" aka married.
"The students are behaving very well because you are a beautiful stranger." A teacher at the school explaining why the students are well behaved in my classes.
"You are very smart, because you can understand my English." The gym trainer guy talking to me about how poor his English is. It's actually not that bad.
Interesting things I have seen written this week:
"I love you teacher!" Written by a student.
"I want to learn about sexy girls bodies." In response to my question- what do you want to learn about in this English class?
"Teacher you and my brother should meet!" Same student trying to get me to date her brother.
"Jenna could make friends with a brick wall." A friend's mother's comment about how easily I can make friends.
Nicest thing I have read this week:
Jenna, like I said, you did a great job!
I think they'll learn a lot from you.
I was writing about how I "enjoyed" watching your class but the bell rang~ I'll talk about it more later~ OK?
Have a good day and see you tomorrow~
From the teacher who sat in on my class today. I didn't notice the quotes around enjoyed until I was posting it here. Oh well- I'm sure it's okay. This is from the teacher who made me feel self-conscious about my lesson plans last week. So, I'm a step ahead.
Now, into the long blog. I haven't written in a week- I missed the Sunday deadline because I posted later in the week.
I had a great time this past weekend. The weekend starts for my on Thursday night- I know, everyone already hates me. But regardless I met up with the friends here for dinner and Ray came down from Gumi. We had a nice time. Then I met up with two other friends to get our nails done on Friday morning (I got a French tip manicure and I actually really like it! Who knew!) Then I hung out with Amber and Ray the rest of the day. Saturday I lazed around and went to my co-teacher, Mr. Choi, daughter's one year birthday party. It's a huge celebration here. They rented out a room in a seafood buffet restaurant. They had an album of professionally taken pictures and party favors for the guests. I bought the little girl a cute dress. I was very happy to be invited to such an event. After the party I went and saw D War with Ray and his host brothers. It was a horrible movie! Aw man- it was terrible. I went to church with Jess and Ray in Gumi on Sunday- that was cool.
Monday was the first day of teaching- I had three classes. I was a little nervous at first, but it went really well. Most of the students are really excited to see me and I think it is the reason why they are well behaved. I had the students ask me questions to see how comfortable they felt speaking English and to hear their pronunciation. It went pretty well and then I went through the rules with the students. Pretty much the same as in the states- no cell phones, no mp3 players, no talking and no sleeping. The sleeping rule has to do with the fact that most students study until 12am every night and are way over worked. I promised that I would try my best to make lessons interesting for them so they won't want to sleep.
It's Wednesday and that means I've taught seven classes this week- I have five classes to teach tomorrow! I am happy that my biggest class load falls on Thursday- since I've taught seven of the same classes thus far, I feel comfortable with the lesson- they should go really well. I am also treating teachers to lunch tomorrow. I'm excited because they all kept buying me lunch last week. So Korean-Chinese food it is! Woot- it's also because I got payed yesterday!
I am excited to finally start teaching. :) It's really been neat to be here, because I am constantly talking about teaching strategies with other people. It's been great to be in that mindset again. I really enjoy it. I am also thankful that my classes will be "easy" for my students, compared to the Korean classes they take. I made it very clear to my students that they can come and speak to me whenever they want about English- whether it's just to talk or if they have questions. I had one girl come in today and talk to me about what I thought about Condeleza Rice and Hilary Clinton. :) Students here have it much harder than in the states. They study extremely hard- long hours too. Their academy teachers can hit them (as a form of punishment) and schools can use all sorts of punishments not allowed in the states (corporal punishment was outlawed here a few years ago- but it still happens sometimes). One of my host sisters told me the other night that her teacher at academy hit her hand because of a low test score and how her hand was still hurting her. I couldn't believe it!
I don't have any plans for this Friday or Saturday. A friend of mine was going to come visit on Saturday, but plans were changed last minute- which is cool. I'm sure I'll think of something. My host family is going to take me to a Buddhist Temple, some other thing, and then fishing. Very full Sunday. Mr. Choi found a church that has English services- I'm going to try and start going to church in two weeks. We'll see. Mr. Choi thought it was ironic that my family was taking me to a temple on Sunday- even though I'm trying to start going to church. I thought it was an astute observation and that it showed he had a good command over the language if he can identify things that are ironic.
I'm still setting into Daegu- but am feeling pretty good still. There are a few more things I would like to know about while I'm here, but we'll see. I want to take language classes and I also want to volunteer in an orphanage. I have been trying to bring it up here and there to Mr. Choi and he tells me that he's looking into it. There's also a teacher at my school who is a Christian and volunteers at an orphanage. Hopefully I can go with him one time and then start going on my own. :)
Thanks again to everyone who is supporting me while I'm here!
-Jenna
P.S. I've updated my pictures. There's a new album called Daegu, but I also updated pictures in Kangwang University- check 'em out!
Tuesday, August 28, 2007
Tuesday, August 21, 2007
"For the Jenna!"
Hm, well it is sort of late, but I do not need to go into school tomorrow until the afternoon. So, I will write about my random-interesting day.
I got up a little before 7- around 6 (I went to bed early last night) and was officially awaked with a knock at my door at 7am. I think the family thought I had to be up that early, since I had to be at school at 8:10 am on Monday. However, I did not have to be at school until 10am. Regardless I ate breakfast with the family and then hung around until my host mother drove me to school.
I arrived at school, entered the teacher's office and awkwardly said hello to all the teachers and waited for Mr. Choi to tell me what to do (I was supposed to get my bank account- that's why I went to school this morning). Turns out he had a class then, so I went to my office and did some work (mostly chatted on g-mail and tried to figure out where I actually am). And, even though it might be a suprise, I finally figured out where I am! There are two subway lines that run through the city and I am about a 20 minute walk from the nearest stop. It is a huge relief to finally know where I am. It's such a humbling experience not to know anything about where you are and what is going on. This is also helpful since I am supposed to meet friends in Daegu for dinner on Thursday night.
Mr. Choi came back and we left for the bank- where I signed my life away on about 20 different documents. But I have a bank account and I even deposited money! Supposedly I will get paid soon- although I am unsure how much and why. Typically we don't get paid until we actually start to teach. Since I haven't started I am not sure why they are paying me. Maybe it is an advance? Some of us started teaching this week and their pay will be adjusted for the time they teach this month. But, I am happy I have a bank account- I am slowly beginning to feel like an actual member of society again. Nevertheless, the simple act of opening an account led to an interesting foray into Korean culture. It went like this:
Mr. Choi: "Jenna have you heard about the Korean custom for when a person receives their first salary?"
Jenna: "No" (shakes head)
Mr. Choi: "It is customary to give underwear to one's parents. I think, it would be a very good thing for you to do- especially for the grandma of your homestay."
Jenna: "Really?" (Tries to play it cool- although is trying not to laugh and wondering if this is a joke.)
Mr. Choi: "Yes. Traditionally the underwear is red."
Jenna: "Red? Where do I get it?" (still in disbelief)
Mr. Choi: "Hm, a store like EMart- nothing expensive" (similar to Target)
Jenna: "Okay, thanks" (Makes a mental note to ask her Korean friends about this later.)
And before this interesting conversation...was lunch! Where I proceeded to sniffle and tried not to blow my nose. We had chee-gae, which is a spicey soup with ramen, hot dog pieces, ham (spam), rice cake, cabbage- etc. It wasn't all that spicey- but you know my nose. I felt really bad, because the teachers I went with were all very sad that they had picked the restuarant. I do really like it and it wasn't all that spicey- but my nose couldn't handle it. I swear it will be the death of me in this country. It is REALLY rude to blow your nose in public (anywhere outside a bathroom- pretty much) and I just can't do it sometimes. My host family thinks I'm sick and since I have to sniffle all the time I cough too. It's an intersting situation.
So, back at school Mr. Choi and I try to set up my internet banking and it doesn't work. It looks like it will take awhile to figure it out and we decide to work on it another day. Around 3:00 I am inundated by a whole bunch of students who are curious about me. Some are brave enough to enter the office and others wait outside in the hallway. I think I get some new students because I made a few signs that say "Welcome, Please Come in! and English Zone" I also have a group of five boys that come in with Mr. Choi. They are here to clean my office. Apparently 3:00-3:20 is cleaning time and I have five boys assigned to sweep, mop, wash my windows, etc. in the office. Students in Korea, like some other Asian countries, are required to clean their classrooms, the hallways, offices, take out the trash, etc. It's a good idea that American public schools should pick up. I think it helps build pride in the school- plus it cuts down on maintence costs.
At 3:30 I have to call my host mother and the fun really begins. To begin with the call last all of 2 seconds in which she answers her phone, says "Jenna" and a few other things in Korea. I quickly gather all my things and am out the door to meet her in front of the school. From what I garnered earlier this morning I am being taken to a nearby university where my host brother takes English class. It turns out that she is trying to sign my up for Korean classes- which is great. Although there are no Korean classes available this month. I have to wait until next month and even then it is sketchy- the times might conflict with my teaching schedule. I really hope they do not, because I really do want to learn.
After that my host mother looks disappointed in not being able to help me get what I want. However, she says a few other things and the only word I pick up is "Costco" and I get the gist that we are going there. Now, Costco is a huge thing in Korea for Americans. Not that I have been missing much American food, but for most American's it's a huge treat to be able to go. It turns out that my family has a Costco card- and not only that, but my host mother is a VIP member (which I'm pretty sure just means she buys a lot- it makes sense since the family is so large). Costco is the same as it is in America- save for the different types of Korean food you can get here- although it does carry a lot of the American brands, which is why Americans love it. Now, this (seemingly) was not an ordinary Costco trip- who knows. But it turned out that we met up with a friend of my host mother, who was also doing her shopping. We shared a cart with her and I helped push- about the only useful thing I could do, inbetween being forced the sample food (not all that bad). I thought of Dad and going to Sam's club. I even took a picture with my camera phone. If I figure out how to transfer pictures onto my computer I'll post it. Now, after completing shopping (I did find one American thing I have missed- Nature Vally granola bars- the ones in the green wrappers- I was going to buy them, but my host mother bought them for me!) we went to a VIP event. Which is why we were there in the first place (I think). It was pretty much a small area of the store sectioned off where there were select items on sale and free food. Neither of the women bought anything, I really think we went just for the free food. :)
My host mother and I then picked up my host brother from English academy and drove to pick up my host father from work. I think he owns two tire factories (one in Daegu and another one somewhere else). This took awhile, but we finally got home and I go to taekwondo with my host bro. I had promised to go with him the day before- so I followed him to practice because I wanted to see him and his teacher wanted to meet me. Well, it turned out that I ended up working out! And I'm supposed to go back every Tuesday for class. I didn't pack my uniform, but now I wish I had- the school is pretty informal. Actually- it is a lot different from my old school and I don't like it all that much- but it might be another way for me to stay active. Besides it is good hang out time with Han Soong. We'll see what happens!
Ah- after taekwondo we went home- I had ten minutes to relax and then we were off again with his parents to get beer. We waited for a long time at the table and I was wondering what was wrong- why we didn't just order. However, it turns out we were meeting friends at the bar. The same woman who I met at Costco and her husband (who is a Korean doctor- I'm not sure what that means). They were very nice and the husband kept trying to speak in English- he was okay...he didn't know a whole lot, but his pronuciation was okay. This is where the subject of the post comes from- everyone was trying to figure out how people toast in America. I taught them "cheers" and they started saying "For Jenna!", which devolved into "For the Jenna!" and finally evolved into "to Jenna!" I could not stop laughing. Thankfully my host bro was there and helped translate. I was able to talk a little more about myself, America, and other people on our program with the family in a relaxed atmopshere- it was nice.
After that we went to norebang (singing room/kareoke). Where everyone sang- and I had to sing songs in English- which was a big hit. I sang "Bye, Bye, Bye, Hotel California, Yesterday, Build Me Up Buttercup, and Dancing Queen" Not my top picksm but I tried to pick songs and everyone helped me that they knew. Most host mom and dad are pretty good singers and everyone had a good time. Finally after an hour of that we came home. I played some cards with Han Soong and now I am blogging. It was an increadibly long day! I had no idea that so many random things would happen!
Overall I felt like today was pretty good. I'm getting to know the family a little better. Shopping helped today with getting to know my host mother a bit more. Taekwondo- although unprepared as I was for it, helped me get to know my host bro more, and going out for beer and singing helped be get some face time in with my host father. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings!
-Jenna
P.S. I have a cell phone and a bank account. I have friends' cell phone numbers and I know where I am. The only thing left I really need is internet- which hopefully will be set up tomorrow at 5:00pm. Then, I will be a full-fledged member of society again!
I got up a little before 7- around 6 (I went to bed early last night) and was officially awaked with a knock at my door at 7am. I think the family thought I had to be up that early, since I had to be at school at 8:10 am on Monday. However, I did not have to be at school until 10am. Regardless I ate breakfast with the family and then hung around until my host mother drove me to school.
I arrived at school, entered the teacher's office and awkwardly said hello to all the teachers and waited for Mr. Choi to tell me what to do (I was supposed to get my bank account- that's why I went to school this morning). Turns out he had a class then, so I went to my office and did some work (mostly chatted on g-mail and tried to figure out where I actually am). And, even though it might be a suprise, I finally figured out where I am! There are two subway lines that run through the city and I am about a 20 minute walk from the nearest stop. It is a huge relief to finally know where I am. It's such a humbling experience not to know anything about where you are and what is going on. This is also helpful since I am supposed to meet friends in Daegu for dinner on Thursday night.
Mr. Choi came back and we left for the bank- where I signed my life away on about 20 different documents. But I have a bank account and I even deposited money! Supposedly I will get paid soon- although I am unsure how much and why. Typically we don't get paid until we actually start to teach. Since I haven't started I am not sure why they are paying me. Maybe it is an advance? Some of us started teaching this week and their pay will be adjusted for the time they teach this month. But, I am happy I have a bank account- I am slowly beginning to feel like an actual member of society again. Nevertheless, the simple act of opening an account led to an interesting foray into Korean culture. It went like this:
Mr. Choi: "Jenna have you heard about the Korean custom for when a person receives their first salary?"
Jenna: "No" (shakes head)
Mr. Choi: "It is customary to give underwear to one's parents. I think, it would be a very good thing for you to do- especially for the grandma of your homestay."
Jenna: "Really?" (Tries to play it cool- although is trying not to laugh and wondering if this is a joke.)
Mr. Choi: "Yes. Traditionally the underwear is red."
Jenna: "Red? Where do I get it?" (still in disbelief)
Mr. Choi: "Hm, a store like EMart- nothing expensive" (similar to Target)
Jenna: "Okay, thanks" (Makes a mental note to ask her Korean friends about this later.)
And before this interesting conversation...was lunch! Where I proceeded to sniffle and tried not to blow my nose. We had chee-gae, which is a spicey soup with ramen, hot dog pieces, ham (spam), rice cake, cabbage- etc. It wasn't all that spicey- but you know my nose. I felt really bad, because the teachers I went with were all very sad that they had picked the restuarant. I do really like it and it wasn't all that spicey- but my nose couldn't handle it. I swear it will be the death of me in this country. It is REALLY rude to blow your nose in public (anywhere outside a bathroom- pretty much) and I just can't do it sometimes. My host family thinks I'm sick and since I have to sniffle all the time I cough too. It's an intersting situation.
So, back at school Mr. Choi and I try to set up my internet banking and it doesn't work. It looks like it will take awhile to figure it out and we decide to work on it another day. Around 3:00 I am inundated by a whole bunch of students who are curious about me. Some are brave enough to enter the office and others wait outside in the hallway. I think I get some new students because I made a few signs that say "Welcome, Please Come in! and English Zone" I also have a group of five boys that come in with Mr. Choi. They are here to clean my office. Apparently 3:00-3:20 is cleaning time and I have five boys assigned to sweep, mop, wash my windows, etc. in the office. Students in Korea, like some other Asian countries, are required to clean their classrooms, the hallways, offices, take out the trash, etc. It's a good idea that American public schools should pick up. I think it helps build pride in the school- plus it cuts down on maintence costs.
At 3:30 I have to call my host mother and the fun really begins. To begin with the call last all of 2 seconds in which she answers her phone, says "Jenna" and a few other things in Korea. I quickly gather all my things and am out the door to meet her in front of the school. From what I garnered earlier this morning I am being taken to a nearby university where my host brother takes English class. It turns out that she is trying to sign my up for Korean classes- which is great. Although there are no Korean classes available this month. I have to wait until next month and even then it is sketchy- the times might conflict with my teaching schedule. I really hope they do not, because I really do want to learn.
After that my host mother looks disappointed in not being able to help me get what I want. However, she says a few other things and the only word I pick up is "Costco" and I get the gist that we are going there. Now, Costco is a huge thing in Korea for Americans. Not that I have been missing much American food, but for most American's it's a huge treat to be able to go. It turns out that my family has a Costco card- and not only that, but my host mother is a VIP member (which I'm pretty sure just means she buys a lot- it makes sense since the family is so large). Costco is the same as it is in America- save for the different types of Korean food you can get here- although it does carry a lot of the American brands, which is why Americans love it. Now, this (seemingly) was not an ordinary Costco trip- who knows. But it turned out that we met up with a friend of my host mother, who was also doing her shopping. We shared a cart with her and I helped push- about the only useful thing I could do, inbetween being forced the sample food (not all that bad). I thought of Dad and going to Sam's club. I even took a picture with my camera phone. If I figure out how to transfer pictures onto my computer I'll post it. Now, after completing shopping (I did find one American thing I have missed- Nature Vally granola bars- the ones in the green wrappers- I was going to buy them, but my host mother bought them for me!) we went to a VIP event. Which is why we were there in the first place (I think). It was pretty much a small area of the store sectioned off where there were select items on sale and free food. Neither of the women bought anything, I really think we went just for the free food. :)
My host mother and I then picked up my host brother from English academy and drove to pick up my host father from work. I think he owns two tire factories (one in Daegu and another one somewhere else). This took awhile, but we finally got home and I go to taekwondo with my host bro. I had promised to go with him the day before- so I followed him to practice because I wanted to see him and his teacher wanted to meet me. Well, it turned out that I ended up working out! And I'm supposed to go back every Tuesday for class. I didn't pack my uniform, but now I wish I had- the school is pretty informal. Actually- it is a lot different from my old school and I don't like it all that much- but it might be another way for me to stay active. Besides it is good hang out time with Han Soong. We'll see what happens!
Ah- after taekwondo we went home- I had ten minutes to relax and then we were off again with his parents to get beer. We waited for a long time at the table and I was wondering what was wrong- why we didn't just order. However, it turns out we were meeting friends at the bar. The same woman who I met at Costco and her husband (who is a Korean doctor- I'm not sure what that means). They were very nice and the husband kept trying to speak in English- he was okay...he didn't know a whole lot, but his pronuciation was okay. This is where the subject of the post comes from- everyone was trying to figure out how people toast in America. I taught them "cheers" and they started saying "For Jenna!", which devolved into "For the Jenna!" and finally evolved into "to Jenna!" I could not stop laughing. Thankfully my host bro was there and helped translate. I was able to talk a little more about myself, America, and other people on our program with the family in a relaxed atmopshere- it was nice.
After that we went to norebang (singing room/kareoke). Where everyone sang- and I had to sing songs in English- which was a big hit. I sang "Bye, Bye, Bye, Hotel California, Yesterday, Build Me Up Buttercup, and Dancing Queen" Not my top picksm but I tried to pick songs and everyone helped me that they knew. Most host mom and dad are pretty good singers and everyone had a good time. Finally after an hour of that we came home. I played some cards with Han Soong and now I am blogging. It was an increadibly long day! I had no idea that so many random things would happen!
Overall I felt like today was pretty good. I'm getting to know the family a little better. Shopping helped today with getting to know my host mother a bit more. Taekwondo- although unprepared as I was for it, helped me get to know my host bro more, and going out for beer and singing helped be get some face time in with my host father. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings!
-Jenna
P.S. I have a cell phone and a bank account. I have friends' cell phone numbers and I know where I am. The only thing left I really need is internet- which hopefully will be set up tomorrow at 5:00pm. Then, I will be a full-fledged member of society again!
Monday, August 20, 2007
:)
Okay, I'm trying to leave school, but just had to post a quick message about my first day hanging out at school! It's 4:38 and classes offically ended at 4:20pm- although it sounds like some teachers stick around to teach a supplemantary class- probably for an extra hour.
I got here this morning (my host mom drove me and my host sister to school). I got into my office, which was a feat snce I could not remember the combination to my office! It's my office until a Japanese teacher comes and then I will have to share it with them. It's a bit unusual since most teachers all share one office. Then I had to give my address (introduction) to the entire school staff at the meeting this morning- it went surprisingly well- even if it was only 6 sentances! I also gave the principal, vice prinicipal, and my co-teacher (Mr. Choi) their gifts. Mr. Choi really liked it!
I decided to sick around school because there was a lunch with all the English teachers from the school. I sat around and tried to lesson plan and such- it went pretty well. Every now and then students would pop into my office or stand outside and yell "HI TEACHER!" from the hallway. When I would say anything they would laugh and run away. Some of the braver students actually talked to me. I can't wait to get into the classroom- I'm sure their energy will mellow out!
While I was here this morning Mr. Choi tried to register my cell phone (one that I had been given by a previous participant). However, it would not work so he bought me a phone! This is increadibly generous! I cannot even imagine how must it must have cost. All of the Korean people I have met so far are extremely generous! His daughter's one year birthday is later this month, I will be sure to bring something very nice!
And lastly, this is what Mr. Choi sent me earlier today on messenger:
Hi! Jenna...
Do you know who I am?
Yes, Mr. Choi...
You can use this messenger from now on...
When you have something to tell me(all of the staffs in this school), use this messenger freely. You can visit me also whenever you need...
You may feel tired, I think. But as time goes by and as you are getting familiar with this rather strange and unfamiliar situation, you will feel better soon.
Cheer up, Jenna^^....
Though you sometimes may feel hard to understand me due to my poor English, I'll do my best to help you....
If there is anything that you can not understand, don't hesitate to let me know about that....
Well, I hope you first day in this school would be great...^^
I am still having a wonderful time and am so thankful for everything! Now I will walk home in the stiffling heat!
-Jenna
I got here this morning (my host mom drove me and my host sister to school). I got into my office, which was a feat snce I could not remember the combination to my office! It's my office until a Japanese teacher comes and then I will have to share it with them. It's a bit unusual since most teachers all share one office. Then I had to give my address (introduction) to the entire school staff at the meeting this morning- it went surprisingly well- even if it was only 6 sentances! I also gave the principal, vice prinicipal, and my co-teacher (Mr. Choi) their gifts. Mr. Choi really liked it!
I decided to sick around school because there was a lunch with all the English teachers from the school. I sat around and tried to lesson plan and such- it went pretty well. Every now and then students would pop into my office or stand outside and yell "HI TEACHER!" from the hallway. When I would say anything they would laugh and run away. Some of the braver students actually talked to me. I can't wait to get into the classroom- I'm sure their energy will mellow out!
While I was here this morning Mr. Choi tried to register my cell phone (one that I had been given by a previous participant). However, it would not work so he bought me a phone! This is increadibly generous! I cannot even imagine how must it must have cost. All of the Korean people I have met so far are extremely generous! His daughter's one year birthday is later this month, I will be sure to bring something very nice!
And lastly, this is what Mr. Choi sent me earlier today on messenger:
Hi! Jenna...
Do you know who I am?
Yes, Mr. Choi...
You can use this messenger from now on...
When you have something to tell me(all of the staffs in this school), use this messenger freely. You can visit me also whenever you need...
You may feel tired, I think. But as time goes by and as you are getting familiar with this rather strange and unfamiliar situation, you will feel better soon.
Cheer up, Jenna^^....
Though you sometimes may feel hard to understand me due to my poor English, I'll do my best to help you....
If there is anything that you can not understand, don't hesitate to let me know about that....
Well, I hope you first day in this school would be great...^^
I am still having a wonderful time and am so thankful for everything! Now I will walk home in the stiffling heat!
-Jenna
Friday, August 17, 2007
Daegu!
Hi everyone!
I arrived safely last night around 8 o'clock. My host family is very nice! My cooperating teacher is also very nice and he stayed to talk and eat fruit with the family when I arrived. The family really wants me to feel like this is my home, which is great. I was told I could eat anything in the fridge and even cook my own food (which seems to be pretty unique). They cut up fresh fruit when I came and showed me around the apartment. It is really nice, pretty spacious. I actually am kicking out the youngest sister from her room- she will live with her grandmother while I am here. The girls seem nice, but weren't all that interested in me. The boy however is very good in english and is a huge help already. He also seems very excited to teach me things- which is great. Last night the girls left at 9 to go to an academy to study! They won't come back until 12! The boy is on vacation now, so I think I'll spend more time with him. However, as the girls were leaving they said a few things to me. As soon as my cooperating teacher left, my host mom took me to get a gym membership (which she paid for) and to show me where the closest grocery store is. Both are very close- in the apartment complex.
When I got in last night they showed me my room and there was a stone bed (a slab of marble) for me to sleep on! My co-teacher was very concerned for me and the mother, father, sister, and my co-teacher dragged the thing out of my room and put it into the master bedroom. I will sleep on the floor for about a week until a bed arrives (the host mom ordered it last night!). It is really generous of them and even though I explained I could sleep on the floor they insisted on getting me a bed. I slept pretty well last night.
I woke up this morning and met my co-teacher and he showed me his office and introuced me to a lot of teachers in the school. I also got to see my office, which is really nice- I have it all to myself- kind of unusual. I also got to meet the principal and met some students. The school is only 4 years old- it has 6 floors. My office is on the third floor and the majority of the classrooms I will teach in are on the third floor. The other classrooms are on the second floor (teachers move from class to class, rather than the students). The school is a little further away than originally thought- about 15-20 minute walk from the apt. I think my daily schedule will look like this (at least for now): health club (work out) in the morning myabe around 7, then eat breakfast and walk to school. Come home from school and hopefullly take language classes and/or volunteer.
My school schedule looks like this ( I think it could change, but hopefully it will stay like this):
Monday I teach class number 4 from 9:30-10:20, class number 7 from 10:30-11:20, class number 3 from 1:20-2:10, and class nunber 2 from 3:30-4:20. There is an hour break for lunch (12:20-1:20) and apparently teachers eat in the cafeteria with students.
Tuesday I teach class number 5 from 10:30-11:20 and class number 8 from 1:20-2:10. Wednesday I teach class number 11 from 3:30-4:20.
Thursday I teach class number 12 from 8:30-9:20, class number 1 from 9:30-10:20, class number 6 from 1:20-2:10, class number 10 from 2:20-3:10, and class number 9 from 3:30-4:20! Thursday is my busiest day!
Friday- no class!
My schedule is amazing! Technically I will only be teaching 12 hours a week! There are only 12 classes for the freshman (first grade class) and I will teach the entire first grade class (40 students per class)! I am so happy that I have Fridays off- I cannot believe it. I have already agreed to teach an additional language class (two times a week) since they were so great about my schedule. It also looks like I will be teaching a teachers class too- but that could change.
I have to go to the teachers staff meeting this monday at 8:10, but I do not start teaching for a week! I am so thankful, because I feel like I have a lot to prepare. But I am confident that a week will, be plenty. It's also nice to be able to settle in. There is still a lot I need to learn (like how to do my laundry!). Also, I think I will get my cell phone set up this monday and a bank account. I still have to unpack and work on an introduction (in Korean) for the staff meeting. As soon as I can take pictuers of the apartment and my school I will let you know and post them!
Thank you so much for all your support and prayers! I really felt comfortable during the move and feel very comfortable at my homestay- even though I don't know what is happening 99% of the time. I really cannot imagine a better homestay or school- God is so faithful!
Love,
Jenna
P.S. Please excuse my deteriorating English. I fear that the longer I stay in Korea and the less exposure I have to native speakers the faster my English will disappear! I have heard from past program participants that this happens, also that they tend to speak very slowly (especially when they have to explain things) and that they use a lot more body lanaguge when communicating!
I arrived safely last night around 8 o'clock. My host family is very nice! My cooperating teacher is also very nice and he stayed to talk and eat fruit with the family when I arrived. The family really wants me to feel like this is my home, which is great. I was told I could eat anything in the fridge and even cook my own food (which seems to be pretty unique). They cut up fresh fruit when I came and showed me around the apartment. It is really nice, pretty spacious. I actually am kicking out the youngest sister from her room- she will live with her grandmother while I am here. The girls seem nice, but weren't all that interested in me. The boy however is very good in english and is a huge help already. He also seems very excited to teach me things- which is great. Last night the girls left at 9 to go to an academy to study! They won't come back until 12! The boy is on vacation now, so I think I'll spend more time with him. However, as the girls were leaving they said a few things to me. As soon as my cooperating teacher left, my host mom took me to get a gym membership (which she paid for) and to show me where the closest grocery store is. Both are very close- in the apartment complex.
When I got in last night they showed me my room and there was a stone bed (a slab of marble) for me to sleep on! My co-teacher was very concerned for me and the mother, father, sister, and my co-teacher dragged the thing out of my room and put it into the master bedroom. I will sleep on the floor for about a week until a bed arrives (the host mom ordered it last night!). It is really generous of them and even though I explained I could sleep on the floor they insisted on getting me a bed. I slept pretty well last night.
I woke up this morning and met my co-teacher and he showed me his office and introuced me to a lot of teachers in the school. I also got to see my office, which is really nice- I have it all to myself- kind of unusual. I also got to meet the principal and met some students. The school is only 4 years old- it has 6 floors. My office is on the third floor and the majority of the classrooms I will teach in are on the third floor. The other classrooms are on the second floor (teachers move from class to class, rather than the students). The school is a little further away than originally thought- about 15-20 minute walk from the apt. I think my daily schedule will look like this (at least for now): health club (work out) in the morning myabe around 7, then eat breakfast and walk to school. Come home from school and hopefullly take language classes and/or volunteer.
My school schedule looks like this ( I think it could change, but hopefully it will stay like this):
Monday I teach class number 4 from 9:30-10:20, class number 7 from 10:30-11:20, class number 3 from 1:20-2:10, and class nunber 2 from 3:30-4:20. There is an hour break for lunch (12:20-1:20) and apparently teachers eat in the cafeteria with students.
Tuesday I teach class number 5 from 10:30-11:20 and class number 8 from 1:20-2:10. Wednesday I teach class number 11 from 3:30-4:20.
Thursday I teach class number 12 from 8:30-9:20, class number 1 from 9:30-10:20, class number 6 from 1:20-2:10, class number 10 from 2:20-3:10, and class number 9 from 3:30-4:20! Thursday is my busiest day!
Friday- no class!
My schedule is amazing! Technically I will only be teaching 12 hours a week! There are only 12 classes for the freshman (first grade class) and I will teach the entire first grade class (40 students per class)! I am so happy that I have Fridays off- I cannot believe it. I have already agreed to teach an additional language class (two times a week) since they were so great about my schedule. It also looks like I will be teaching a teachers class too- but that could change.
I have to go to the teachers staff meeting this monday at 8:10, but I do not start teaching for a week! I am so thankful, because I feel like I have a lot to prepare. But I am confident that a week will, be plenty. It's also nice to be able to settle in. There is still a lot I need to learn (like how to do my laundry!). Also, I think I will get my cell phone set up this monday and a bank account. I still have to unpack and work on an introduction (in Korean) for the staff meeting. As soon as I can take pictuers of the apartment and my school I will let you know and post them!
Thank you so much for all your support and prayers! I really felt comfortable during the move and feel very comfortable at my homestay- even though I don't know what is happening 99% of the time. I really cannot imagine a better homestay or school- God is so faithful!
Love,
Jenna
P.S. Please excuse my deteriorating English. I fear that the longer I stay in Korea and the less exposure I have to native speakers the faster my English will disappear! I have heard from past program participants that this happens, also that they tend to speak very slowly (especially when they have to explain things) and that they use a lot more body lanaguge when communicating!
Tuesday, August 14, 2007
Dams, the Army, and Otters- Oh My!
Hi All,
I am feeling a lot better than last week- both physically and mentally. I'm not 100% better- I still have a small cough, but I am leaving for Seoul/Daegu feeling pretty good. The transition is a bit funny from orientation (which feels like summer camp) to actually working again. I may even have to start as early as next Monday! However, before I leave I wanted to write about a very interesting experience I had yesterday. I cannot promise the next time I will post because of the move. I am not sure when i will have access to the internet.
My surreal foray into a small aspect Korea's foreign policy:
Our group was privileged enough to be invited, through the personal contact of an orientation coordinator, to visit a part of the DMZ. It was not the typical place most tourists/nationals see when they visit the DMZ, which is north of Seoul. This was an area north of Chuncheon (which is north east of Seoul, by about two hours). Not only were we invited to visit this part of the DMZ, but we were also invited to see the Peace Dam (who knew) and an otter research facility. Stay tuned (keep reading) to see how otters factor into South Korea's foreign diplomacy.
We began our trip by visiting the Peace Dam. We took a quick pit stop at the town hall and we were greeted by the mayor of the town. It turns out that the Peace Dam was constructed in response to a dam that was built in North Korea. If the dam in North Korea broke or was opened, the water from the dam would flow into Seoul and flood the city. The water level would be as high as the 33rd floor of a high rise. The dam was built beginning in 1987 and completed about a year after. However, there was a lot of suspicion about political corruption and South Koreans lost interest in the dam. In 2002, I think, the Peace dam was expanded due to concern that the dam in North Korea might be structurally unsound and break open, thus releasing the water into South Korea (and Seoul).
Following the Peace dam we went to the DMZ where we were told that we could not take any pictures in the general direction of North Korea. We had a brief talk by a military man(Sargent?) about the area they guarded. The military area they guarded was about 10 kilometers. The area has barbed wire dividing South and North Korea and there are a few kilometers of open land between the two countries with barbed wire on the other side. From our vantage point we could see across the DMZ and into North Korea. They had those binoculars you see at tourist sites (like the Empire State Building or something). Through the binoculars we could see two men standing on a bridge in North Korea. The area of the DMZ looks really pretty- however the environment around the DMZ and other places in Korea are littered with land mines. The environment is completely damaged- almost irreversibly so. I'll post some of the pictures of the area (South Korea only) soon. Actually, as we were walking back to the buses we saw some barbed wire with a sign on it labeled MINE.
Next we went to the otter research facility. Before we left on our trip we heard that otters were the only mammals/animals that safely travel between South and North Korea on one of the main rivers between the two countries. However, when we got there it seemed that the otter that was sent to North Korea with a GPS tracking device in its stomach may not have actually made it to North Korea. Besides that interesting information, the otters were super cute. The research lab may not have successfully traveled to North Korea, but it does provide researchers from both countries to work together and make contact.
As a whole the trip was very interesting. From a foreign perspective the places we got to see and experience seem very strange. I feel that a lot was lost in translation and due to the cultural differences. Korea has a long history after the Korean war and the DMZ is an integral part in the history. We had tour guides on the trip and our guide told us we were visiting one of the most dangerous places in the world. However, and he seemed quite serious, I did not feel like that before our visit or after.
The Peace Dam was also pretty interesting and something I do not feel most people know about. It is actually an internationally recognized site and there has been a "world peace park" with a bell and everything. Nobel Peace Prize laureates have endorsed the effort and have even sent letters and bells of their own for the museum. I was looking through the material and I was surprised to see I had met two of the laureates who have supported this project. I was able to meet Adolfo Perez Esquivel and Rigoberta Menchú through PeaceJam in high school.
Uh...it's late and I'm going to continue this at a later date...
I am feeling a lot better than last week- both physically and mentally. I'm not 100% better- I still have a small cough, but I am leaving for Seoul/Daegu feeling pretty good. The transition is a bit funny from orientation (which feels like summer camp) to actually working again. I may even have to start as early as next Monday! However, before I leave I wanted to write about a very interesting experience I had yesterday. I cannot promise the next time I will post because of the move. I am not sure when i will have access to the internet.
My surreal foray into a small aspect Korea's foreign policy:
Our group was privileged enough to be invited, through the personal contact of an orientation coordinator, to visit a part of the DMZ. It was not the typical place most tourists/nationals see when they visit the DMZ, which is north of Seoul. This was an area north of Chuncheon (which is north east of Seoul, by about two hours). Not only were we invited to visit this part of the DMZ, but we were also invited to see the Peace Dam (who knew) and an otter research facility. Stay tuned (keep reading) to see how otters factor into South Korea's foreign diplomacy.
We began our trip by visiting the Peace Dam. We took a quick pit stop at the town hall and we were greeted by the mayor of the town. It turns out that the Peace Dam was constructed in response to a dam that was built in North Korea. If the dam in North Korea broke or was opened, the water from the dam would flow into Seoul and flood the city. The water level would be as high as the 33rd floor of a high rise. The dam was built beginning in 1987 and completed about a year after. However, there was a lot of suspicion about political corruption and South Koreans lost interest in the dam. In 2002, I think, the Peace dam was expanded due to concern that the dam in North Korea might be structurally unsound and break open, thus releasing the water into South Korea (and Seoul).
Following the Peace dam we went to the DMZ where we were told that we could not take any pictures in the general direction of North Korea. We had a brief talk by a military man(Sargent?) about the area they guarded. The military area they guarded was about 10 kilometers. The area has barbed wire dividing South and North Korea and there are a few kilometers of open land between the two countries with barbed wire on the other side. From our vantage point we could see across the DMZ and into North Korea. They had those binoculars you see at tourist sites (like the Empire State Building or something). Through the binoculars we could see two men standing on a bridge in North Korea. The area of the DMZ looks really pretty- however the environment around the DMZ and other places in Korea are littered with land mines. The environment is completely damaged- almost irreversibly so. I'll post some of the pictures of the area (South Korea only) soon. Actually, as we were walking back to the buses we saw some barbed wire with a sign on it labeled MINE.
Next we went to the otter research facility. Before we left on our trip we heard that otters were the only mammals/animals that safely travel between South and North Korea on one of the main rivers between the two countries. However, when we got there it seemed that the otter that was sent to North Korea with a GPS tracking device in its stomach may not have actually made it to North Korea. Besides that interesting information, the otters were super cute. The research lab may not have successfully traveled to North Korea, but it does provide researchers from both countries to work together and make contact.
As a whole the trip was very interesting. From a foreign perspective the places we got to see and experience seem very strange. I feel that a lot was lost in translation and due to the cultural differences. Korea has a long history after the Korean war and the DMZ is an integral part in the history. We had tour guides on the trip and our guide told us we were visiting one of the most dangerous places in the world. However, and he seemed quite serious, I did not feel like that before our visit or after.
The Peace Dam was also pretty interesting and something I do not feel most people know about. It is actually an internationally recognized site and there has been a "world peace park" with a bell and everything. Nobel Peace Prize laureates have endorsed the effort and have even sent letters and bells of their own for the museum. I was looking through the material and I was surprised to see I had met two of the laureates who have supported this project. I was able to meet Adolfo Perez Esquivel and Rigoberta Menchú through PeaceJam in high school.
Uh...it's late and I'm going to continue this at a later date...
Sunday, August 12, 2007
Was that Culture Shock?
Hi All,
This is a very late night posting for me. However, I am still awake and this week is going to be extremely busy. So, I decided to post something short (haha).
Well, I graduated Korean language classes on Friday and got Bs in reading, writing, speaking, and a B+ in listening. Woo-hoo. Now, these grades are not bad, but by Korean standards I feel like I should have done better. Yet, I tried my best and am still planning on learning the language- so I'm not giving up. Which is probably a good thing, seeing as how I leave orientation Wednesday.
I managed to get myself sick last week and generally just had a post nasal drip and head congestion. I proceeded to self medicate and got rid of the head congestion only to force the congestion the other way (into my chest). This made me nervous. However, I am finally beginning to feel better (and am praying that staying up really late tonight will have no effect on my health). But besides feeling sick, I've generally been in a funk (the past 3-4 days). Which I was very surprised to find might in fact have been culture shock. (I was reflecting about my general mood over the past few days, today.)
Yet, I think this may have passed. We found a Vietnamese place for lunch today and I was so excited because all I wanted was some soup (the original plan was to get cheesy rice). However, I was very excited at the prospect of Pho- a food I consume quite often in the states. And since we could not find the cheesy rice place, we settled on Vietnamese. Granted it was Korean Vietnamese, but it was pretty good. Actually, it has to be the best meal I've had since I've been here (first clue to culture shock/home sickness). AND we went to E-Mart today (like Target/K-mart in the states) and I bought a caramel frappacino at Starbucks. It was expensive, but I didn't mind. I was craving it and the first sip was amazing (second clue to culture shock/home sickness). For dinner I had pizza and coke. It was Nicki's birthday today and she wanted to go out for pizza. I had a slice of veggie, pepperoni, and Hawaiian (third clue to culture shock/home sickness). AND the amazing conclusion to this day was the fact that my stomach did not object to this crazy concoction of foods. This is quite a feat considering it rejected the majority of the Korean food I've eaten in the past week. In conclusion, although I did not mentally feel like I had culture shock/home sickness- on a visceral level my body knew and was craving familiar food.
All in all, I am feeling better and think I am out of the funk. However, I could really use prayer for this week, especially Friday when I leave Seoul for Daegu and most likely have to start teaching on Monday. The transition is stressing a lot of people out and I think I'm being affected by their stress. Please pray for safety, health, strength, and reliance on God to get me through everything that will happen in the next week.
Thank you so much,
Jenna
This is a very late night posting for me. However, I am still awake and this week is going to be extremely busy. So, I decided to post something short (haha).
Well, I graduated Korean language classes on Friday and got Bs in reading, writing, speaking, and a B+ in listening. Woo-hoo. Now, these grades are not bad, but by Korean standards I feel like I should have done better. Yet, I tried my best and am still planning on learning the language- so I'm not giving up. Which is probably a good thing, seeing as how I leave orientation Wednesday.
I managed to get myself sick last week and generally just had a post nasal drip and head congestion. I proceeded to self medicate and got rid of the head congestion only to force the congestion the other way (into my chest). This made me nervous. However, I am finally beginning to feel better (and am praying that staying up really late tonight will have no effect on my health). But besides feeling sick, I've generally been in a funk (the past 3-4 days). Which I was very surprised to find might in fact have been culture shock. (I was reflecting about my general mood over the past few days, today.)
Yet, I think this may have passed. We found a Vietnamese place for lunch today and I was so excited because all I wanted was some soup (the original plan was to get cheesy rice). However, I was very excited at the prospect of Pho- a food I consume quite often in the states. And since we could not find the cheesy rice place, we settled on Vietnamese. Granted it was Korean Vietnamese, but it was pretty good. Actually, it has to be the best meal I've had since I've been here (first clue to culture shock/home sickness). AND we went to E-Mart today (like Target/K-mart in the states) and I bought a caramel frappacino at Starbucks. It was expensive, but I didn't mind. I was craving it and the first sip was amazing (second clue to culture shock/home sickness). For dinner I had pizza and coke. It was Nicki's birthday today and she wanted to go out for pizza. I had a slice of veggie, pepperoni, and Hawaiian (third clue to culture shock/home sickness). AND the amazing conclusion to this day was the fact that my stomach did not object to this crazy concoction of foods. This is quite a feat considering it rejected the majority of the Korean food I've eaten in the past week. In conclusion, although I did not mentally feel like I had culture shock/home sickness- on a visceral level my body knew and was craving familiar food.
All in all, I am feeling better and think I am out of the funk. However, I could really use prayer for this week, especially Friday when I leave Seoul for Daegu and most likely have to start teaching on Monday. The transition is stressing a lot of people out and I think I'm being affected by their stress. Please pray for safety, health, strength, and reliance on God to get me through everything that will happen in the next week.
Thank you so much,
Jenna
Wednesday, August 8, 2007
Late posting...
Hi All,
I apologize for the late posting, but this week has been very busy! A few highlights from last week: cooking class! We made bulgolgi (marinated meat) and mandu (dumplings). It was yummy and fun. Highlights from this week is the fact we finished language classes yesterday! Woo hoo! Although we took a three hour final- ick. I studied lots when I got back from Seoul and our teacher told us that we did pretty well on the final. We have our "graduation" from class tomorrow!
The main highlight from last week was the fact that I went to Seoul on Friday night. Be warned, this is lengthy!
I left on Friday evening with Amber to meet up with Amelia and Ray (who was already in Seoul). This past week was the IKAA (International Korean Adoptee Association) 2007 Gathering. They host gatherings every three years, in Seoul, and I think this was either the third or second time it happened. It's a pretty big deal and I guess the last time they had it there was a lot of media and press coverage. I heard there was supposed to be a lot this year, but the main thing in the news here are the hostages in Afghanistan. There weren't any workshops happening this weekend- the plan was just to head to Seoul to meet people and hang out- which happened, so it was a pretty cool weekend. There were over 500 people from Europe and the US for the gathering.
Friday night we went to dinner and then out to a bar where we hung out and got to meet some people. It was hard to get to know people right off the bat because everyone already knows one another, but it was still pretty chill.
Saturday we slept in a little- had lunch and then went to two shopping districts in Seoul. We didn't see much of Seoul, but we're heading back there this coming weekend or the next and I figure I'll have a whole year to go back and site see. There was a gala dinner for the conference and I was able to find a dress and shoes and attend the dinner- which was really nice. I'll post pictures soon. I wasn't going to go, but I figured I might as well since I didn't know if I'd be able to go to the next gathering. The dinner was really nice- at one of the nicest hotels in Seoul (the Shilla). Good food salad, steak, soup, and a mouse desert. They also had a few performances which were really neat- a drumming thing, traditional instruments and a modern bboy group (beat boxing and break dancing). After that we went back to the hotel- changed and went out for the night. Went to a bar with a whole bunch of people and then out to a club. We didn't get back to the hotel until the morning and we slept most of Sunday! I've never stayed out so late, but it was a lot of fun.
Amber and I ended up staying with Ray and one of his friends at the hotel. We got extra blankets and slept on the floor. It turned out to be the best since everyone with the conference was staying there. It turns out Ray's friend went to CU and graduated in 2004. It was fun to talk about Boulder. Then later on Saturday I sat next to someone at lunch who went to Dennison and we talked about Columbus- it was pretty neat. There were so many different types of people all with different and really interesting stories. Most of the participants were older than I (late twenties, 30s, etc.) but it was still a good time. Actually on Sunday we met a woman (an adoptee) and her husband at lunch. She was 55- it was the first time I've met someone who was one of the first waves of adoptees in America- it was pretty neat.
A lot of people had done birth searches, were in the process of it, or recently did them- and of course, like everything else, people had many different situations (some good, some not so good). Amelia met her biological brother on Sunday and so far her experience was positive. They met with a social worker who translated and then he took her out afterwards. He lives in Pusan which is about an hour away from Daegu- so he plans on seeing her and keeping in touch.
Next week orientation ends. We head to Seoul for Yonsei Day. This is when we meet our principal, vice principal, and maybe co-teacher too. They will take us to our placements and our home stays. Please pray for safety and a good school and home stay!
Thanks everyone!
-Jenna
I apologize for the late posting, but this week has been very busy! A few highlights from last week: cooking class! We made bulgolgi (marinated meat) and mandu (dumplings). It was yummy and fun. Highlights from this week is the fact we finished language classes yesterday! Woo hoo! Although we took a three hour final- ick. I studied lots when I got back from Seoul and our teacher told us that we did pretty well on the final. We have our "graduation" from class tomorrow!
The main highlight from last week was the fact that I went to Seoul on Friday night. Be warned, this is lengthy!
I left on Friday evening with Amber to meet up with Amelia and Ray (who was already in Seoul). This past week was the IKAA (International Korean Adoptee Association) 2007 Gathering. They host gatherings every three years, in Seoul, and I think this was either the third or second time it happened. It's a pretty big deal and I guess the last time they had it there was a lot of media and press coverage. I heard there was supposed to be a lot this year, but the main thing in the news here are the hostages in Afghanistan. There weren't any workshops happening this weekend- the plan was just to head to Seoul to meet people and hang out- which happened, so it was a pretty cool weekend. There were over 500 people from Europe and the US for the gathering.
Friday night we went to dinner and then out to a bar where we hung out and got to meet some people. It was hard to get to know people right off the bat because everyone already knows one another, but it was still pretty chill.
Saturday we slept in a little- had lunch and then went to two shopping districts in Seoul. We didn't see much of Seoul, but we're heading back there this coming weekend or the next and I figure I'll have a whole year to go back and site see. There was a gala dinner for the conference and I was able to find a dress and shoes and attend the dinner- which was really nice. I'll post pictures soon. I wasn't going to go, but I figured I might as well since I didn't know if I'd be able to go to the next gathering. The dinner was really nice- at one of the nicest hotels in Seoul (the Shilla). Good food salad, steak, soup, and a mouse desert. They also had a few performances which were really neat- a drumming thing, traditional instruments and a modern bboy group (beat boxing and break dancing). After that we went back to the hotel- changed and went out for the night. Went to a bar with a whole bunch of people and then out to a club. We didn't get back to the hotel until the morning and we slept most of Sunday! I've never stayed out so late, but it was a lot of fun.
Amber and I ended up staying with Ray and one of his friends at the hotel. We got extra blankets and slept on the floor. It turned out to be the best since everyone with the conference was staying there. It turns out Ray's friend went to CU and graduated in 2004. It was fun to talk about Boulder. Then later on Saturday I sat next to someone at lunch who went to Dennison and we talked about Columbus- it was pretty neat. There were so many different types of people all with different and really interesting stories. Most of the participants were older than I (late twenties, 30s, etc.) but it was still a good time. Actually on Sunday we met a woman (an adoptee) and her husband at lunch. She was 55- it was the first time I've met someone who was one of the first waves of adoptees in America- it was pretty neat.
A lot of people had done birth searches, were in the process of it, or recently did them- and of course, like everything else, people had many different situations (some good, some not so good). Amelia met her biological brother on Sunday and so far her experience was positive. They met with a social worker who translated and then he took her out afterwards. He lives in Pusan which is about an hour away from Daegu- so he plans on seeing her and keeping in touch.
Next week orientation ends. We head to Seoul for Yonsei Day. This is when we meet our principal, vice principal, and maybe co-teacher too. They will take us to our placements and our home stays. Please pray for safety and a good school and home stay!
Thanks everyone!
-Jenna
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